Core Vaccines for Dogs

These vaccines are recommended for all dogs, regardless of age or lifestyle:

  • Parvovirus – A highly contagious virus that causes severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Often fatal if left untreated.
  • Distemper – A serious disease affecting the respiratory, gastrointestinal, and nervous systems. It can cause seizures, paralysis, and death.
  • Canine Adenovirus (Hepatitis) – Affects the liver and can lead to fever, abdominal pain, and long-term organ damage.
  • Leptospirosis – A bacterial infection that can cause kidney and liver failure, and can be transmitted to humans.

Depending on your dog’s environment and lifestyle, additional vaccines may be recommended:

  • Kennel Cough (Bordetella) – Often required for boarding, grooming, or doggy daycare.

  • Puppies: Begin at 6–8 weeks, followed by boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age
  • First Annual Booster: At 6–12 months
  • Adults: Every 1–3 years depending on risk and lifestyle

Diseases can be picked up during walks, visits to the park, grooming appointments, or even from other pets. Vaccinating protects not only your dog, but also the wider pet community.

Vaccinations are a key part of responsible pet ownership. Let us help keep your dog happy, healthy, and protected for life.

Vaccinations are a vital part of protecting your dog’s health. They help prevent serious and potentially fatal diseases. Like all medical treatments, vaccinations can occasionally cause mild side effects—but most dogs tolerate them very well.

Common, Mild Side Effects

Most side effects are minor and short-lived. These may include:

  • Mild fever
  • Tiredness or reduced activity
  • Temporary loss of appetite
  • Slight swelling or tenderness at the injection site
  • A small, firm lump at the injection site (usually resolves within 1–2 weeks)

These symptoms typically appear within a few hours and go away on their own within 24–48 hours.

Less Common Side Effects

In rare cases, dogs may experience:

  • Vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Facial swelling
  • Hives or skin irritation
  • Coughing or difficulty breathing
  • Collapse

These may indicate an allergic reaction and require immediate veterinary attention. Serious reactions are very rare, but it’s important to monitor your dog after any vaccination.

Modern vaccines, like Vanguard®, are extensively tested for safety and are used worldwide with excellent safety records. The health risks posed by the diseases vaccines protect against far outweigh the small chance of a reaction.

  • Let your dog rest for the day
  • Provide plenty of fresh water
  • Keep an eye out for unusual symptoms
  • Contact us if you have any concerns—our team is here to help

Vaccinations are one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your dog lives a long, healthy life.